Government partner, International Organizations representatives, and traditional leaders pledge to continue their efforts to eradicate FGM in Liberia.
Monrovia – On February 6th, Liberia observed the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), reaffirming its commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of women and girls across the nation. The event, held at Invincible Park, was organized by the Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, bringing together government officials, civil society organizations, and international partners to reflect on progress and reinforce efforts to end FGM.
Addressing a Persistent Challenge
Despite significant advancements, FGM remains present in Liberia, especially in rural communities, with over 50% of women and girls aged 15-49 having undergone the procedure. The practice persists in 11 out of 15 counties, particularly affecting girls aged 5 to 14.
Liberia’s Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Gbeme Horace-Kollie
As the Minister of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Gbeme Horace-Kollie, who intervened during the event, explained: “FGM is not only a violation of human rights but also a grave public health concern; its psychosocial and reproductive risks are well documented. Currently, in Liberia, we are seeing a resurgence of the practice: we cannot allow this to continue, we need to ensure a safer future for our women and girls. The celebration of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is particularly significant today as we join the celebrations for the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration. This reminds us that progress is only possible if we recalibrate our efforts to protect our women and girls.”
Key Achievements in the Fight Against FGM
Liberia has made notable progress in tackling FGM through policy reforms, community interventions, and economic support for former practitioners. Major milestones include:
Policy advancements: The adoption of policy statements in 2019 and 2022, suspending FGM for specified periods.
- Nationwide ban: A proclamation by former National Chairman Chief Zanzan Karwor outlawing the practice across Liberia.
- Community-led initiatives: Traditional rites and the closure of bush schools in five counties, with plans to extend the initiative to the remaining six FGM-practicing counties.
- Economic alternatives: Training and livelihood support for 800 traditional practitioners in sustainable businesses, including climate-smart agriculture, tailoring, soap-making, and tie-dye production.
- Educational and cultural centers: The construction of four vocational and heritage centers in Grand Cape Mount, Montserrado, Nimba, and Lofa Counties, providing women and girls with skills training and cultural education.
Rep. Moima Briggs Mensah, Representative of District #6 Bong County and proponent of the Anti-FGM legislation currently pending submission to the Liberia National Legislature
Rep. Moima Briggs Mensah emphasized: “I stand here today as the proponent of the Anti-FGM legislation; I stand here today as a survivor of FGM. We were taught as children that this harmful practice was a rite of passage and a prerequisite for being a good wife. One key takeaway of today’s event is that we have the tools to stop this practice. We need to protect our girls, we need to give them the choice to live freely of this practice.”
A Collaborative Path Forward
Ms. Comfort Lamptey, UN Women Liberia Country Representative, delivered UN Secretary-General António Guterres’ important statement on FGM: “Female genital mutilation is a horrific act of gender-based violence. As one of the most brutal manifestations of gender inequality, FGM inflicts profound, lifelong physical and mental harm, and carries life-threatening health risks.”, she remarked as well: “Eradicating this vicious human rights violation is urgent, and it is possible: for ALL women and girls, everywhere.”
The commemoration served as a powerful reminder of Liberia’s ongoing commitment to eradicating FGM. As awareness grows and initiatives expand, stakeholders remain dedicated to ensuring a future where every girl can live free from harm and with full access to her rights and opportunities.
